JP2004021440A - Portable terminal - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a portable terminal allowing designation of complicated printing which is difficult to specify using an user interface provided in an electronic camera. <P>SOLUTION: The portable terminal comprises receiving means (transmitting/receiving means 357) for receiving an image to be printed from other communication equipment, display means 368 for displaying the received image, image processing means (information processing means 380) for performing image processing such as layout edit, trimming and combination of a plurality of images regarding the image displayed on the display means 368, printing order information generating means (information processing means 380) for generating printing order information representing a result of the image processing, and transmitting means (transmitting/receiving means 357) for transmitting the generated printing order information to the other communication equipment. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a mobile terminal, and more particularly to a mobile terminal that performs generation and editing of a print file when printing an image.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, electronic cameras (digital cameras) and the like are becoming more popular in place of silver halide cameras that use silver halide films, and it has become common to request print labs to print images taken with electronic cameras. It's getting on.
[0003]
Currently, there are the following two types of designation methods for ordering prints of images taken with an electronic camera to a print laboratory or the like.
[0004]
As a first method, a recording medium (recording medium such as a memory card, a small hard disk, or a CD-ROM) on which an image is recorded at the time of ordering the print is handed over to the print laboratory, and an image file desired to be printed on the order form A print order is made by filling in information such as a name and the number of desired images to be printed.
[0005]
As a second method, not only the image file to be printed but also a print order file such as DPOF describing the print order information is recorded on the recording medium delivered at the time of ordering, and the print order file is read out by the print laboratory. The image is printed based on information such as the image file name and the number of printed sheets described in the print order file.
[0006]
A print order file conforming to DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) is widely used, and a simple order file conforming to DPOF can be created in most electronic cameras.
[0007]
The main designation items related to the print order include designation of a print image and designation of the number of prints, designation of a print size, trimming designation, character insertion printing designation, and layout designation.
[0008]
On the other hand, in recent years, PDAs (Personal Data Assistance) such as palmtop computers have become widespread as portable terminals that are small and easy to carry, and are used for schedules, address management, and transmission / reception of e-mails. Unlike an electronic camera, a portable terminal has an excellent user interface such as a pen input function. In recent mobile terminal models, models with a wireless communication function such as Bluetooth have been released, and information can be easily transmitted and received with other communication devices such as electronic cameras, personal computers, and mobile phones. It is possible. The mobile terminal can be connected to a server on the Internet via a mobile phone.
[0009]
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-150673 discloses a digital camera that can set the number of print orders without increasing the buttons for operating the camera.
[0010]
In the digital camera, when the processing mode of the camera is set to the playback mode, an image for setting the order quantity is displayed on the monitor, and displayed on the monitor by operating the increment button and decrement button while pressing the release button. The number of orders for the current image is set.
[0011]
A digital camera capable of print designation is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-196358.
[0012]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, when creating a print order file in an electronic camera conventionally, a small user interface (setting button, execution button, display button, cross button, etc.) provided in the electronic camera, and an image monitor with restrictions Therefore, there is a problem that it is impossible to specify a print order such as complicated trimming designation or complicated image layout designation. In particular, display means such as a liquid crystal monitor provided in an electronic camera ensure the implementation and confirmation of complex print designations such as image layout designation due to display hardware limitations in addition to the small number of display pixels. It is difficult to do.
[0013]
For example, in an example of an electronic camera that is generally sold at present, only setting functions relating to print order are equipped with a function for specifying the number of prints, date printing, and simple trimming.
[0014]
Even if a new print service is provided at the print lab, the electronic camera released before the start of the planning of the new print service does not have a processing program for the new print service. The new print service cannot be used. In addition, when the user wishes to use the new print service, there has been a problem that a new electronic camera corresponding to the new print service has to be purchased.
[0015]
The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and a portable terminal having an excellent user interface for complicated print designation that is difficult to designate with a user interface provided in an electronic camera and print designation that cannot be designated. It is an object of the present invention to provide a portable terminal capable of generating or editing print order information.
[0016]
It is another object of the present invention to provide a portable terminal capable of reducing the image transfer time when generating or editing print order information.
[0017]
It is another object of the present invention to provide a portable terminal that enables designation of a newly provided print service.
[0018]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, in a mobile terminal that receives an image and generates print order information, a receiving means for receiving an image to be printed from another communication device, and a display for displaying the received image Means, print order information generating means for generating print order information describing the printing conditions of the image displayed on the display means, and transmission means for transmitting the generated print order information to another communication device. It is characterized by that.
[0019]
According to the present invention, the receiving unit that receives an image to be printed from another communication device, the display unit that displays the received image, and the print order information that describes the printing conditions of the image displayed on the display unit. Since it has a print order information generation means to generate and a transmission means to send the generated print order information to other communication devices, it is difficult to specify complicated print specifications and specifications that are difficult to specify with the user interface provided in the electronic camera. This makes it possible to perform print designation that cannot be performed on a portable terminal having an excellent user interface.
[0020]
In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides print order information in which print conditions for printing an image are described in a portable terminal that edits print order information, and a print target that is described in the print order information. Receiving means for receiving the image, display means for displaying the received image, print order information editing means for editing the print order information of the image displayed on the display means, and the edited print order information And a transmission means for transmitting to a communication device.
[0021]
According to the present invention, the print order information describing the printing conditions for printing an image, the receiving means for receiving the image to be printed described in the print order information, and the display for displaying the received image Provided in the electronic camera, and a transmission means for transmitting the edited print order information to another communication device. It is possible to edit the print order information by executing a complicated print designation that is difficult to designate in a user interface or a print designation that is impossible to designate on a portable terminal having an excellent user interface.
[0022]
In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides print order information in which print conditions for printing an image are described in a portable terminal that edits print order information, and a print target that is described in the print order information. Receiving means for receiving the image, analyzing means for extracting identification information for specifying the image to be printed described in the received print order information, requesting transmission of the extracted identification information and the image First transmission means for transmitting an image transmission request to be transmitted to another communication device, display means for displaying the received image, and print order information editing means for editing print order information of the image displayed on the display means And a second transmission means for transmitting the print order information edited by the print order information editing means to another communication device.
[0023]
According to the present invention, the print order information describing the printing conditions for printing an image, the receiving means for receiving the image to be printed described in the print order information, and the received print order information Analyzing means for extracting identification information for specifying an image to be printed, and first transmission means for transmitting the extracted image identification information and an image transmission request for requesting transmission of the image to another communication device Display means for displaying the received image, print order information editing means for editing the print order information of the image displayed on the display means, and sending the print order information edited by the print order information editing means to another communication device. A second transmission means that performs complicated print designation that is difficult to designate using a user interface provided in the electronic camera, and printing that cannot be designated. The door designation, and carried out in a portable terminal user interface is excellent, and it is possible to edit the print order information.
[0024]
According to another aspect of the present invention, in order to achieve the above object, in a portable terminal that receives an image and generates print order information, a receiving unit that receives an image to be printed from another communication device and the received image are displayed. Display means, image processing means for performing image processing such as layout editing, trimming, synthesis of a plurality of images, character insertion, etc., on an image displayed on the display means, and a printing condition indicating a result of executing the image processing. It is characterized by comprising print order information generating means for generating the described print order information, and transmitting means for transmitting the generated print order information to another communication device.
[0025]
According to the present invention, a receiving unit that receives an image to be printed from another communication device, a display unit that displays the received image, and layout editing, trimming, and synthesis of a plurality of images displayed on the display unit Image processing means for performing image processing such as character insertion, print order information generating means for generating print order information in which printing conditions indicating the result of image processing are described, and the generated print order information. Because it is equipped with a transmission means for transmitting to other communication devices, it is possible to make a complicated print designation that is difficult to specify with the user interface provided in the electronic camera, or a print designation that cannot be specified with a mobile terminal with an excellent user interface. Can be implemented.
[0026]
In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides print order information in which print conditions for printing an image are described in a portable terminal that edits print order information, and a print target that is described in the print order information. Receiving means for receiving the image, display means for displaying the received image, and image for performing image processing such as layout editing, trimming, synthesis of a plurality of images, character insertion, etc. on the image displayed on the display means A processing unit; a print order information editing unit that edits the print order information based on a result of performing the image processing; and a transmission unit that transmits the edited print order information to another communication device. It is a feature.
[0027]
According to the present invention, the print order information describing the printing conditions for printing an image, the receiving means for receiving the image to be printed described in the print order information, and the display for displaying the received image Means, image processing means for performing image processing such as layout editing, trimming, synthesis of a plurality of images, character insertion, etc. on the image displayed on the display means, and the print order information based on the result of image processing. Since it includes a print order information editing means for editing and a transmission means for transmitting the edited print order information to other communication devices, it is difficult to specify a print order that is difficult to specify with the user interface provided in the electronic camera. Can be specified on a mobile device with an excellent user interface, and print order information can be edited. Theft is possible.
[0028]
In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides print order information in which print conditions for printing an image are described in a portable terminal that edits print order information, and a print target that is described in the print order information. Receiving means for receiving the image, analyzing means for extracting identification information for specifying the image to be printed described in the received print order information, requesting transmission of the extracted identification information and the image First transmission means for transmitting an image transmission request to be transmitted to another communication device, display means for displaying the received image, layout editing, trimming, and synthesis of a plurality of images for the image displayed on the display means Image processing means for performing image processing such as character insertion, and print order information for editing the print order information based on the result of performing the image processing And editing means, it is characterized in that the print order information editing means and a second transmission means for transmitting the print order information edited to another communication device.
[0029]
According to the present invention, the print order information describing the printing conditions for printing an image, the receiving means for receiving the image to be printed described in the print order information, and the received print order information Analyzing means for extracting identification information for specifying an image to be printed, and first transmission means for transmitting the extracted image identification information and an image transmission request for requesting transmission of the image to another communication device And a display means for displaying the received image, an image processing means for performing image processing such as layout editing, trimming, composition of a plurality of images, and text insertion on the image displayed on the display means, and image processing Print order information editing means for editing the print order information based on the result, and print order information edited by the print order information editing means is transmitted to another communication device. Since the second transmission means is provided, it is possible to carry out complicated print designation that is difficult to designate with the user interface provided in the electronic camera and print designation that cannot be designated with a portable terminal having an excellent user interface. The print order information can be edited.
[0030]
According to another aspect of the invention, the analyzing unit sets an image size when receiving an image to be printed, and the transmitting unit transmits the image size to another communication device. Therefore, when generating or editing the print order information, it is possible to transfer an image having a minimum image size, and it is possible to reduce the image transfer time.
[0031]
According to another aspect of the invention, the mobile terminal receives a menu that allows the designation of a print service newly provided via a communication network such as the Internet, or a processing program that generates print order information. As a result, the user can designate a newly provided print service.
[0032]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a portable terminal according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0033]
FIG. 1 shows a configuration example of a print ordering system using a portable terminal according to the present invention.
[0034]
As shown in the figure, the print ordering system includes an electronic camera 10 that captures a subject image and outputs the image, receives an image from the electronic camera 10, and generates print order information related to the received image. A mobile terminal 30 that edits and edits, and a server 90 such as a print laboratory that receives print order information generated by the mobile terminal 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet and provides services such as image printing and delivery. Is provided.
[0035]
As shown in the figure, the mobile terminal 30 displays images, various character information, and the like, and operates the display means 368 constituted by a touch panel on which the user inputs information and the processing functions of the mobile terminal 30. A so-called power switch 305 for switching between a state and a non-operating state and a pilot lamp for a power source for notifying the user that the mobile terminal 30 is in an operating state are provided.
[0036]
The user can browse one or more images displayed on the display unit 368. In addition, the user instructs (tap) an icon button, menu, or image displayed on the display unit 368 with the attached touch pen, or uses the character input recognition unit assigned to the character input area of the display unit 368. It is possible to input commands and characters.
[0037]
Note that the mobile terminal 30 and the server 90 can transmit and receive information such as print orders via the communication network 20, but the mobile terminal 30 and the server 90 need to be always in communication connection. However, it is only necessary that the communication connection is made when necessary, such as when print order information is transmitted. Also, instead of performing wireless or wired information transmission / reception between the portable terminal 30 and the server 90, wireless communication or wired communication is performed between the electronic camera 10 and the server 90, and information such as print orders is received. You may make it implement transmission / reception of.
[0038]
The user transmits the image captured by the electronic camera 10 to the mobile terminal 30 and displays it on the display means 368 of the mobile terminal 30, and the user operates the input means of the mobile terminal 30 to perform complicated trimming and image processing. Desired print conditions such as layout editing, composition of a plurality of images, character insertion, and the like are set. When the setting of the print conditions is completed, the mobile terminal 30 generates or edits print order information based on the print conditions set by the user. By transmitting the print order information and the image data to be printed to the server 90 via the communication network 20 such as a telephone line or the Internet, the user can easily place an order for the print of the image. It is possible.
[0039]
FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of a signal processing system of the electronic camera.
[0040]
The imaging processing unit of the electronic camera 10 includes an imaging unit 150 that photoelectrically converts an object image formed on the light receiving surface and outputs the image as an image signal, an image processing unit 153 for analog signals, and an analog image signal that is digitally converted. An A / D converter 154 for converting into image data is provided.
[0041]
Further, as a communication means for transmitting / receiving information such as image data to / from other communication devices such as the portable terminal 30, transmission / reception means 157 for transmitting or receiving information such as image data, and information such as image data and print order information And a communication connector 162 for transmitting the communication information to other communication devices.
[0042]
The electronic camera 10 includes a compression / expansion unit 167 that performs compression processing on image data, an OSD 169 that displays various characters on the display unit 168 together with images, and white balance processing on the image data. , Signal processing means 170 for performing gamma conversion, YC conversion processing, pixel number conversion processing, electronic zoom processing, trimming processing, and the like, and a frame memory 171 for temporarily storing image data for display And a D / A converter 172 for converting digital image data into a composite signal for display or the like.
[0043]
In addition, the electronic camera 10 includes an input unit 174 including a power switch, a release button, a cross button, and the like, an I / O 175 serving as an interface for input information input via the input unit 174, and a recording medium 177. A recording medium mounting unit 178 that is detachably mounted, and a recording medium interface 179 that records and reads information such as image data on the recording medium 177 are provided.
[0044]
Further, the electronic camera 10 includes an information processing unit 180 that controls the entire electronic camera 10 and performs image processing and communication processing, various constants for adjustment that can be rewritten and stored, and the electronic camera 10. A non-volatile memory 182 for storing the operation program and the like, and a RAM 184 serving as a work area when the program is executed are provided.
[0045]
The electronic camera 10 also includes a calendar clock 190 that keeps time, a power source 191 that supplies various powers for driving the electronic camera 10, and a battery 191A. Means 193 and light emission control means 194 for adjusting the light emission timing of the light emission means 193 and the like are provided.
[0046]
As shown in the figure, the information processing means 180 of the electronic camera 10 and its peripheral circuits are connected by a bus 199, and can transmit information to each other at a high speed. Each peripheral circuit can be controlled based on the processing program.
[0047]
An imaging process of the electronic camera 10 configured as described above will be described.
[0048]
The image to be picked up is formed on the light receiving surface of the image pickup means 150 by the image pickup lens, and the formed subject image is photoelectrically converted and output to the image processing means 153. The image processing unit 153 performs image processing such as correlated double sampling, amplification, and noise reduction processing on the image signal, and the A / D converter 154 converts it into digital data.
[0049]
The image data converted into the digital data is transferred to the signal processing unit 170 in response to an instruction from the information processing unit 180, and subjected to image processing such as image white balance, gamma correction, YC conversion, zoom processing, and pixel number conversion processing. Later, it is temporarily stored in a frame memory 171 such as a VRAM.
[0050]
The information processing means 180 gives an instruction to sequentially transmit the image data stored in the frame memory 171 to the D / A converter 172 and displays it on the display means 168 together with information such as characters generated from the OSD 169.
[0051]
When the user presses a release button for an imaging instruction provided in the input unit 174, the information processing unit 180 enters a mode for imaging a subject. Then, the information processing means 180 temporarily records the image data converted into digital data by the A / D converter 154 in the RAM 184.
[0052]
When recording an image on the recording medium 177, the image stored in the RAM 184 is sequentially read out and transferred to the signal processing means 170, and the image white balance, gamma correction, YC conversion, zoom processing, pixel number conversion are performed. After performing image processing such as processing to perform gradation conversion of each color, image size conversion processing, and the like, the image data is transferred to the compression / expansion means 167.
[0053]
The image data compressed by the compression / expansion means 167 under predetermined conditions is temporarily stored again in the FILE work area of the RAM 184 again based on an instruction from the information processing means 180, and then converted to image data for recording. Are output to the recording medium interface 179 and sequentially recorded on the recording medium 177.
[0054]
In the above description, the embodiment has been described in which the electronic camera 10 is used as the communication device with which the mobile terminal 30 receives an image. However, the present invention is not limited to the electronic camera 10 and the image is displayed. The object of the present invention can be achieved even with a communication device such as a mobile phone capable of recording an image acquired from an external device or by capturing an image. The image may be a still image, a continuously shot image, or a moving image.
[0055]
FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of a signal processing system of the mobile terminal according to the present invention.
[0056]
As shown in the figure, an information transmission / reception unit of the mobile terminal 30 includes an antenna 356 that performs wireless communication with a communication device such as a wireless communication base station and the electronic camera 10, an image, print order information, and other various reports. Transmitting and receiving means 357 for converting data into a predetermined format for wirelessly transmitting and receiving data (may include functions of transmitting means, first transmitting means, second transmitting means, and receiving means), image A communication connector 362 that transmits information such as data and print order information to other communication devices is provided.
[0057]
Further, the portable terminal 30 includes a display unit 368 for displaying information such as images and characters, a frame memory 371 for temporarily storing image data for display, and a display for recording recorded in the frame memory 371. The user designates the display control means 372 that reads out the image data and converts the image data into a display image signal suitable for display by the display means 368 and outputs it, and the image or icon displayed on the display means 368. A touch panel 369 that reads information indicating that the user has performed or text information input by the user, and a touch panel control unit 370 that outputs information input by the user via the touch panel 369 to the information processing unit 380. .
[0058]
Also, the mobile terminal 30 reads various information input by the user via the input unit 374 such as the power switch 305 and transmits the information to the information processing unit 380 described later, or based on an instruction acquired from the information processing unit 380. And an I / O 375 for outputting a display command to a notification means such as a pilot lamp (LED) of the power source.
[0059]
The portable terminal 30 has a PC card mounting unit 378 for detachably mounting the recording medium 177 and a PC card 377 such as a modem card, and a card interface for inputting and outputting information such as image data to the PC card 377. 379 (which may include the function of the second transmitting means).
[0060]
The mobile terminal 30 includes an information processing means (CPU) 380 that controls the entire mobile terminal 30, a ROM that stores programs and various constants for operating the information processing means 380, and an information processing means 380. A memory 381 composed of a recording means (RAM) serving as a work area when executing processing, various constants related to processing of the portable terminal 30, connection information used when information is transmitted to and received from the electronic camera 10, and the like. A nonvolatile memory 382 for recording information, a calendar clock 390 for counting time, a timer 390A for counting time, a battery 391A for supplying power for operating the portable terminal 30, and information processing means 380 and other peripheral devices A power source 391 for controlling the power to be supplied is provided.
[0061]
As shown in the figure, the information processing means 380 in the portable terminal 30 and each peripheral circuit including the I / O 375, the memory 381, the calendar clock 390, etc. are connected by a bus 399, and the information processing means 380 It is possible to control the circuits and to control each peripheral circuit based on a processing program executed by the information processing means 380.
[0062]
The wireless communication means is communication means that uses light such as radio waves, ultrasonic waves, and infrared rays as a carrier wave. When radio waves are used, it may be based on wireless communication specifications such as a wireless LAN (local area network) and Bluetooth.
[0063]
In the above description, the portable terminal according to the present invention is described as the PDA. However, the present invention is not limited to the PDA, and is a portable electronic device such as a personal computer or a notebook computer. It is also possible to achieve the object of the present invention.
[0064]
The transmission / reception unit 357 (reception unit) is configured to send print order information in which printing conditions for printing an image are described, or an image to be printed in the print order information to another communication device such as the electronic camera 10. It is possible to receive from.
[0065]
The information processing unit 380 (image processing unit) can perform image processing such as layout editing, trimming, synthesis of a plurality of images, and text insertion on the image displayed on the display unit 368.
[0066]
Further, the information processing unit 380 (print order information generating unit) can generate print order information in which printing conditions indicating the result of image processing are described.
[0067]
Further, the information processing means 380 (print order information editing means) can edit the print order information based on the result of image processing.
[0068]
Further, the information processing means 380 (analysis means) can extract identification information for specifying an image to be printed described in the received print order information. The information processing unit 380 (analysis unit) can set the size of the image when receiving the image to be printed.
[0069]
Further, the information processing means 380 (menu updating means) sends a menu for enabling designation of a newly provided print service or a processing program for generating print order information via the communication network 20 such as the Internet and the transmission / reception means 357. It can be received from a communication device such as the server 90 and executed.
[0070]
Further, the transmission means such as the transmission / reception means 357 or the card interface 379 includes the print order information generated or edited, the information on the image size set by the analysis means, the identification information of the extracted image, and the image transmission request for requesting transmission of the image. Such information can be transmitted to other communication devices such as the electronic camera 10 and the server 90.
[0071]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart regarding print order information creation processing using the portable terminal according to the present invention.
[0072]
As shown in the figure, at S100 “Start” (hereinafter abbreviated as S100), a user creates print order information when printing an image recorded in the electronic camera 10. In this case, the processing mode of the electronic camera 10 is set to the communication mode, and the mode in which information can be transmitted and received with the mobile terminal 30 is set. In addition, the mobile terminal 30 is also set to a communication mode in which information transmission / reception with the electronic camera 10 can be performed.
[0073]
In S102 “Transmission path establishment”, the user operates the input unit 374 of the portable terminal 30 to set the mode for starting communication with the electronic camera 10. Then, the information processing unit 380 of the portable terminal 30 transmits the “inquiry request” information regarding the communication connection via the transmission / reception unit 357 and the antenna 356. The “inquiry request” transmitted from the portable terminal 30 is acquired by the information processing unit 180 of the electronic camera 10 via the antenna 156 and the transmission / reception unit 157. Then, the processing executed by the information processing means 180 is S120 “Transmission path establishment”, and transmits “response information” regarding the communication connection to the portable terminal 30 via the transmission / reception means 157 and the like.
[0074]
When the mobile terminal 30 receives “response information” from the electronic camera 10 via the transmission / reception means 357, etc., based on the received “response information”, a process for specifying a communication partner and a process for setting a communication protocol are performed. Then, a mode for exchanging information with the electronic camera 10 is entered.
[0075]
When the portable terminal 30 and the electronic camera 10 are performing one-to-one communication (wired communication or infrared wireless communication, etc.), the portable terminal 30 and the electronic camera 10 check the communication protocol. It is possible to immediately transmit and receive information such as image data simply by performing the initialization process.
[0076]
Note that when the mobile terminal 30 and the electronic camera 10 perform wireless communication with a plurality of communication devices at a time, there is a possibility that a plurality of wireless communication devices exist within the wireless communication range. After performing the process of setting the protocol, both the electronic camera 10 and the portable terminal 30 perform a process of checking each other's communication partner and a process of specifying each other's communication partner.
[0077]
When the communication transmission path is established as described above, the processing performed by the information processing unit 380 of the mobile terminal 30 proceeds to the processing of S104 “image transmission request”, and the “image transmission request” is transmitted via the transmission / reception unit 357. Is transmitted to the electronic camera 10. When the information processing unit 180 of the electronic camera 10 acquires the “image transmission request” via the transmission / reception unit 157, the process performed by the information processing unit 180 proceeds to S122 “image information transmission”, and the recording unit such as the recording medium 177 is recorded. One or a plurality of image files recorded in the file are read out, and the file names and thumbnail images of the image files recorded therein are extracted and transmitted to the portable terminal 30 via the transmission / reception unit 157. .
[0078]
The information processing means 380 of the portable terminal 30 that has received the file name and thumbnail image of the image outputs the character information and thumbnail image of the file name received in S106 “Receive Image Information” to the frame memory 371. The file names and thumbnail images are read out from the frame memory 371 by the display control means 372, converted into display signals, and then output to the display means 368. The display unit 368 displays a list of images recorded in the recording unit such as the recording medium 177 of the electronic camera 10. Then, the processing executed by the information processing means 380 proceeds to the next processing of S108 “Create print order information”.
[0079]
In S108, the information processing means 380 of the portable terminal 30 generates image data for displaying the list display image data and the layout frame received from the electronic camera 10 and outputs them to the frame memory 371. .
[0080]
FIG. 5 shows a display example of a print image displayed on the display means of the portable terminal.
[0081]
As shown in the figure, the display means 368 displays a list display of a plurality of transfer images received from the electronic camera 10, a print area frame, and one or more image layout frames. In the present embodiment, an example in which three images are arranged in one print area will be described below.
[0082]
FIG. 6 shows a display example when selecting a layout frame on which an image is pasted by the display means of the mobile terminal.
[0083]
In the example shown in the figure, the user designates the lower left layout frame. This designation is performed by tapping a desired layout frame portion on the touch panel 369 or the like. Information regarding the position of the designated layout frame is transmitted to the information processing unit 380 via the touch panel control unit 370 or the I / O 375. Then, the image data for displaying the selected layout frame in a thick frame is output to the frame memory 371. Then, the display unit 368 displays the layout frame selected by the user in a thick frame.
[0084]
FIG. 7 shows a display example when an image is selected by the display means of the portable terminal.
[0085]
As shown in the figure, the user performs a process of selecting a desired image from the images displayed in a list. This image selection is also input by tapping a desired image portion on the touch panel 369 or the like. Information specifying the image selected by the user is transmitted to the information processing unit 380 via the touch panel control unit 370 or the I / O 375, and image data for displaying the frame of the image selected by the user in a thick frame is displayed in the frame memory 371. Process to output to. In this way, a layout frame as shown in FIG. 7 and the selected image are displayed with a thick frame. Note that the image displayed on the display means 368 is a five-person image, but when the right or left scroll button is tapped, the image received from the electronic camera 10 is scrolled to display other images. Is done.
[0086]
FIG. 8 shows a display example in which the selected image is displayed in the layout frame.
[0087]
As shown in FIG. 7, when a user selects an image and a layout frame in which the image is embedded, the information processing means 380 is based on information specifying an image acquired via the touch panel 369 or I / O 375. The main image of the image received from the electronic camera 10 is read from the recording means such as the memory 381 and decompressed, and after resizing the number of pixels so as to match the size of the layout frame, the image is displayed at a predetermined position. Processing for generating image data and outputting it to the frame memory 371 is performed.
[0088]
In this way, as shown in FIG. 8, the image designated by the user is displayed in the layout frame selected by the user. When an image is designated for all layout frames, the image shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the display means 368 of the portable terminal 30.
[0089]
FIG. 10 shows a display example of the original image when designating image trimming.
[0090]
As shown in the figure, before performing image trimming, a plurality of transfer images received from the electronic camera 10 and an image to be trimmed designated by the user are displayed.
[0091]
FIG. 11 shows a display example when designating image trimming.
[0092]
As shown in the figure, when the user specifies trimming of an image to be printed, the user uses a pointing device such as a touch pen or a mouse cursor to specify the upper left area and the lower right area. I do. The area designation information for the upper left and lower right when the area is designated is acquired by the information processing means 380 via the touch panel control means 370 or the I / O 375. Then, a process of outputting frame line display data indicating the range in which the area is designated is performed to the frame memory 371. Then, the range frame designated by the user is displayed in a thick frame on the display means 368 (see FIG. 12).
[0093]
The designation of the trimming region is not limited to the two-point designation method for designating the upper left and lower right as described above, and may be performed using a technique such as dragging with a mouse.
[0094]
FIG. 13 shows a display example of the image after trimming.
[0095]
When displaying only the trimmed area, the information processing unit 380 performs processing to extract only the image in the range designated by the user and discard the other part. Then, the image data extracted for the designated range is output to the frame memory 371. Then, a trimmed confirmation image as shown in FIG. 13 is displayed on the display means 368.
[0096]
In this way, the information processing means 380 (image processing means) generates image data to be printed based on the layout and trimming position information designated by the user in S108 shown in FIG. The image file is generated after performing the compression process in step S2. In addition to the image file, the information processing unit 380 (print order information generating unit) separates the print type, number of prints, file compression format, image file path information, trimming area information, image rotation information, image For example, print order information such as a DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) file describing automatic print information such as layout information, composite information of a plurality of images, and text input information may be created and recorded in a predetermined directory. . Further, instead of generating the DPOF file in which the print order information is described, such print order information may be described in a tag area inside the image file.
[0097]
When the information processing unit 380 of the portable terminal 30 generates the print order information in S108, the next process performed by the information processing unit 380 proceeds to S110 "Send print information", and the created DPOF is transmitted via the transmission / reception unit 357. A process of transmitting print order information such as a file to the electronic camera 10 is performed. Further, when the information processing unit 380 newly generates a composite image, a process of transmitting the composite image to the electronic camera 10 together with the print order information is performed.
[0098]
When the information processing unit 180 of the electronic camera 10 acquires the print order information via the transmission / reception unit 157, the processing performed by the information processing unit 180 proceeds to S124 "Reception of print information and recording on medium", and the portable terminal 30 The print order information received from is recorded in recording means such as a recording medium 177 mounted on the electronic camera 10.
[0099]
When the portable terminal 30 completes transmission of the print order information and the like to the electronic camera 10, the processing performed by the information processing means 380 of the portable terminal 30 proceeds to S112 "Transmission path open", and communication with the electronic camera 10 is performed. “Information to open the transmission path” is transmitted, and the communication with the electronic camera 10 is terminated. On the other hand, when the information processing unit 180 of the electronic camera 10 receives “information to open the transmission path” from the mobile terminal 30, the processing performed by the information processing unit 180 proceeds to S126 “open transmission path”. And processing to end transmission / reception of information. When the preparation for disconnecting communication is completed, the information processing means 180 transmits “communication disconnection” information to the mobile terminal 30. When the transmission of the “communication disconnection” information is completed, the processing executed by the information processing means 180 proceeds to “End” in S130, and the print order information reception processing is ended.
[0100]
On the other hand, when the information processing unit 380 of the portable terminal 30 receives the “communication disconnection” information from the electronic camera 10, the processing performed by the information processing unit 380 proceeds to S130, and the print order information generation processing ends.
[0101]
FIG. 14 shows a description example of print order information generated by the mobile terminal.
[0102]
As shown in the figure, the print order information is composed of a header portion [HDR] in which information such as the revision number of the print order information, copyright information, and creation date is described, and print information of each image. [JOB] is described. In [JOB], the image number, the print type, the number of prints, the format information of the image, the path where the image file to be printed is recorded, and the file name are described for each image. .
[0103]
When the user confirms the details of the print order information created previously or performs complex editing, the print order information and the designated image data are transferred from the electronic camera 10 to the portable terminal 30 having an excellent user interface. Need to send. The transmission / reception flow at that time is shown in FIG.
[0104]
When the user edits the print order information recorded in the electronic camera 10, the processing mode of the electronic camera 10 and the processing mode of the portable terminal 30 are set to the communication mode in S200 “Start”.
[0105]
Then, in the next S202 “establish transmission path” and S220 “establish transmission path”, a process for specifying a communication partner and a process for setting a communication protocol are performed, and the mobile terminal 30 and the electronic camera 10 transmit and receive information. Enter the mode to perform.
[0106]
When a communication transmission path is established between the mutual communication devices, the processing performed by the information processing unit 380 of the portable terminal 30 proceeds to the processing of S204 “print information transmission / transmission request”, and the “print information transmission / reception unit 357” A process of transmitting an “information transmission request” to the electronic camera 10 is performed. When the information processing unit 180 of the electronic camera 10 acquires the “print information transmission request” via the transmission / reception unit 157, the processing performed by the information processing unit 180 proceeds to S222 “image information transmission”, and the recording on the recording medium 177 or the like. The print order information recorded in the means is read out and transmitted to the portable terminal 30 via the transmission / reception means 157.
[0107]
When the information processing means 380 (analysis means) of the portable terminal 30 receives the print order information, the process proceeds to S206 “Reception / analysis of print information”, and an image for specifying an image to be printed described in the print order information. A process of extracting identification information such as a file name and path is performed. Further, the information processing means 380 (analysis means) may specify an image size smaller than the main image when receiving an image to be printed in order to shorten the communication time required for image transmission. Also, a high compression rate may be designated when receiving an image to be printed.
[0108]
Next, the processing performed by the information processing unit 380 of the portable terminal 30 proceeds to S208 “image transmission request”, and the image identified by the information processing unit 380 (analysis unit) is identified via the transmission / reception unit 357 (transmission unit). A process of transmitting to the electronic camera 10 information of an “image transmission request” including information, an image transmission request for requesting transmission of the image, and an image size set as necessary is performed. When the information processing unit 180 of the electronic camera 10 acquires the “image transmission request” via the transmission / reception unit 157, the processing performed by the information processing unit 180 proceeds to S224 “Transmission of image information” and records on the recording medium 177 or the like. A predetermined image file recorded in the means is read out, and the read image file or a thumbnail image described in the image file is transmitted to the portable terminal 30 via the transmission / reception means 157. Further, based on an instruction from the mobile terminal 30, the number of pixels may be converted or the image compression rate may be changed, and the image may be transmitted to the mobile terminal 30.
[0109]
The information processing unit 380 of the mobile terminal 30 that has received the image file or the thumbnail image performs a process of recording the received image file or thumbnail image or the like in a recording unit such as the memory 381 in S210 “Receive image information”. . Then, after extracting the image data from the received image file and performing a predetermined expansion process, the image acquired based on the trimming area or the image rotation information described in the received print order information Image processing is performed to generate a print image and output it to the frame memory 371. The display control unit 372 performs a process of reading image data from the frame memory 371, converts the image data into a display signal, and outputs the signal to the display unit 368. The display unit 368 displays a print image of the image described in the print order information.
[0110]
When the creation of all the print images described in the print order information is completed, the processing performed by the information processing means 380 proceeds to the next S214 “Open transmission path”, and performs processing for disconnecting communication with the electronic camera 10. Proceeding to S230 “End”, the print order information acquisition process is ended.
[0111]
When the information processing unit 180 of the electronic camera 10 receives information related to “open transmission path” from the mobile terminal 30, the processing performed by the information processing unit 180 proceeds to S226 “open transmission path”, and A process for ending transmission / reception is performed, and the process proceeds to S230 “End” to end the print order information reception process.
[0112]
In the following, an embodiment of processing related to trimming area designation will be described.
[0113]
It is assumed that image data of a plurality of resolutions is recorded for each image in the recording means such as the recording medium 177 of the electronic camera 10. For example, the resolution of an image recorded on the recording medium of the electronic camera 10 is as follows.
[0114]
120x160 (thumbnail image)
240x320
480x640
960x1280
As a trimming designation method, there is a method of displaying an image only in a trimmed area. As shown in FIG. 16A, the trimming area is designated by moving or enlarging the display frame. At this time, if the image is enlarged and the trimming area is reduced, the mobile terminal 30 receives a higher resolution image from the electronic camera 10 instead of the thumbnail image, and uses the image for display.
[0115]
FIG. 16 shows an initial state of trimming designation.
[0116]
FIG. 16A shows a trimming region viewed from the entire image, and FIG. 16B shows a designated region visible to the user.
[0117]
FIG. 17 shows an image after the trimming area has been enlarged.
[0118]
FIG. 17A is a diagram illustrating a trimming region viewed from the entire image. FIG. 17B shows an image immediately after enlarged display in a designated area visible to the user. FIG. 17C shows an image after receiving high-resolution data in a designated area visible to the user. Since FIG. 17C has higher resolution image data than FIG. 17B, the image has less ambiguity.
[0119]
The high-resolution image acquisition according to the trimming area may be automatically performed by the information processing unit 380 of the mobile terminal 30, and the information processing unit 380 displays information regarding the selection of the resolution on the display unit 368, You may make it wait for a user's instruction | indication. Alternatively, settings relating to high-resolution image acquisition may be performed in advance, and whether to acquire an image with another resolution or not to acquire an image with another resolution may be switched based on the setting.
[0120]
In the above example of image resolution, the image resolution is doubled, so that the trimming area is halved (the image enlargement ratio is doubled), so that high-resolution data is acquired. That's fine. Further, when the trimming area is doubled (image display is halved), low-resolution data is used. If low-resolution data is held, use it as is, and if it is discarded, get it again.
[0121]
FIG. 18 shows the moving state of the trimming area.
[0122]
FIG. 18A shows a trimming region viewed from the entire image. FIG. 18B shows a designated area that can be seen by the user.
[0123]
As shown in the figure, when the user designates the movement of the trimming area, the image 18 (b) after the designated area movement is displayed on the display means 368. In this case, the information processing means 380 transmits the movement information of the trimming area instructed by the user to the electronic camera 10, and the difference between the previously displayed image of FIG. 17 (c) and the image 18 (b) acquired this time. Only the image data may be transmitted from the electronic camera 10 to the portable terminal 30. In this way, by receiving only an image of a necessary part when moving the trimming area from the electronic camera 10, it is possible to perform transmission and reception of the image in a shorter time, so that the processing waiting time can be reduced. This makes it possible to set print order information quickly.
[0124]
In the following, description will be given of a case where text input is specified for an image.
[0125]
For example, when a character “Happy New Year” is combined with the image designated in FIG. 19, as shown in FIG. 19, an area for entering a character by tapping the touch panel 369 of the mobile terminal 30 or the like. Is specified. Then, when an example of a character to be inserted next is designated, a character is inserted as shown in FIG.
[0126]
FIG. 21 shows a flowchart regarding menu update in the portable terminal 30.
[0127]
When a new print service is developed in a print laboratory or the like, and the user desires to use the new print service, the user downloads the menu program of the mobile terminal 30 from the server 90, so that the mobile terminal 30 The new print service can be used.
[0128]
When the user instructs the display of the menu of the portable terminal 30 at S300 “Start” and selects the “menu update” item displayed in the menu, the selection information is the touch panel control means 370 or I. Acquired by the information processing means 380 via / O375. Then, the process performed by the information processing unit 380 proceeds to S302 “menu update selection”, and proceeds to the next step S304 “connect to server”.
[0129]
In S <b> 304, the information processing means 380 starts communication connection with the server 90 via the card interface 379, the modem card (PC card), and the communication network 20. When the communication connection process ends, the process performed by the information processing unit 380 proceeds to S306 “Receive / Analyze Menu List”, and performs a process of receiving the latest menu list from the server 90. The communication with the server 90 may be performed via wireless communication such as a mobile phone line or a wireless LAN, in addition to being performed via a modem card.
[0130]
When the reception of the latest menu list is completed, the processing performed by the information processing means 380 proceeds to the determination in S308 “menu changed?”, And the menu list currently recorded in the recording means such as the nonvolatile memory 382; A process of comparing the menu list received from the server 90 is performed, and it is determined whether or not the menu has been changed in the server 90. If it is determined that there is no menu change, the process branches to S314 “connection release”, the communication process with the server 90 is released, and the communication process is terminated at the next S316 “end”.
[0131]
The service content menu may include a character insertion service for images, a template image layout and composition service, a calendar creation service using images, and the like.
[0132]
If it is determined in S308 that there is a menu change, the process proceeds to the next S310 “Reception of menu difference data”, and the server 90 receives the difference or all of the menu and its processing program. Process. When the information processing means 380 completes the reception of the menu and its processing program from the server 90 in S310, the processing proceeds to the next S312 "Update of menu data".
[0133]
In S <b> 312, the information processing unit 380 records the menu newly received from the server 90 and its processing program in the recording unit such as the nonvolatile memory 382, and performs processing for updating the menu data. When all of the menu and its processing program are received from the server 90, the old menu and its processing program recorded in the recording means such as the non-volatile memory 382 are deleted, and the newly received menu and The processing program is recorded in recording means such as the nonvolatile memory 382. The menu received from the server 90 and its processing program may be a patch of print ordering software for the portable terminal 30. In this way, the mobile terminal 30 can receive the latest menu from the server 90, and can also implement a newly provided print service.
[0134]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the mobile terminal of the present invention, the receiving means for receiving the image to be printed from another communication device, the display means for displaying the received image, and the print order for the image displayed on the display means. Since it has a print order information generating means for generating information and a transmitting means for transmitting the generated print order information to other communication devices, it is difficult to specify a complicated print specification or the like with a user interface provided in the electronic camera. Therefore, it is possible to perform print designation that cannot be designated on a portable terminal having an excellent user interface.
[0135]
According to another aspect of the invention, receiving means for receiving print order information describing printing conditions for printing an image, an image to be printed described in the print order information, and the received image Display means for displaying the image, print order information editing means for editing the print order information of the image displayed on the display means, and transmission means for transmitting the edited print order information to another communication device. It is possible to edit the print order information by carrying out complicated print specifications that are difficult to specify with the user interface provided in, and print specifications that cannot be specified on a mobile terminal with an excellent user interface. .
[0136]
According to another aspect of the invention, the print order information describing the printing conditions for printing the image, the receiving means for receiving the image to be printed described in the print order information, and the received print Analyzing means for extracting identification information for specifying an image to be printed described in the order information, identification information for the extracted image, and an image transmission request for requesting transmission of the image are transmitted to another communication device. 1 transmission means, display means for displaying the received image, print order information editing means for editing the print order information of the image displayed on the display means, and print order information edited by the print order information editing means as other information. Since the second transmission means for transmitting to the communication device is provided, the complicated print designation or designation difficult to designate by the user interface provided in the electronic camera is possible. The possible print specification, implemented by a mobile terminal user interface is excellent, it is possible to edit the print order information.
[0137]
According to another aspect of the invention, a receiving unit that receives an image to be printed from another communication device, a display unit that displays the received image, layout editing, trimming, and an image displayed on the display unit Image processing means for performing image processing such as composition of multiple images and insertion of characters, print order information generating means for generating print order information in which printing conditions indicating the result of image processing are described, and generated print Because it has a transmission means to send order information to other communication devices, the user interface is excellent for complicated print designation that is difficult to specify with the user interface provided in the electronic camera, and print designation that can not be specified It becomes possible to carry out with a portable terminal.
[0138]
According to another aspect of the invention, receiving means for receiving print order information describing printing conditions for printing an image, an image to be printed described in the print order information, and the received image Display means for displaying the image, image processing means for performing image processing such as layout editing, trimming, synthesis of a plurality of images, character insertion, etc., on the image displayed on the display means, and based on the results of the image processing, Since the print order information editing means for editing the print order information and the transmission means for transmitting the edited print order information to other communication devices, the complicated print that is difficult to specify by the user interface provided in the electronic camera is provided. Specify print orders that cannot be specified or cannot be specified on a mobile device with an excellent user interface. It is possible to edit.
[0139]
According to another aspect of the invention, the print order information describing the printing conditions for printing the image, the receiving means for receiving the image to be printed described in the print order information, and the received print Analyzing means for extracting identification information for specifying an image to be printed described in the order information, identification information for the extracted image, and an image transmission request for requesting transmission of the image are transmitted to another communication device. 1 transmission means, display means for displaying the received image, image processing means for performing image processing such as layout editing, trimming, synthesis of a plurality of images, character insertion, etc. on the image displayed on the display means, Print order information editing means for editing the print order information based on the result of the processing, and the print order information edited by the print order information editing means for other communication A portable terminal with an excellent user interface that makes it difficult to specify print specifications that cannot be specified by the user interface provided in the electronic camera, or print specifications that cannot be specified. It is possible to edit the print order information.
[0140]
According to another aspect of the invention, the analyzing unit sets an image size when receiving an image to be printed, and the transmitting unit transmits the image size to another communication device. Therefore, when generating or editing the print order information, it is possible to transfer an image having a minimum image size, and it is possible to reduce the image transfer time.
[0141]
According to another aspect of the invention, the mobile terminal receives a menu that allows the designation of a print service newly provided via a communication network such as the Internet, or a processing program that generates print order information. As a result, the user can designate a newly provided print service.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a print ordering system using a mobile terminal according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a signal processing system of an electronic camera.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a signal processing system of a mobile terminal according to the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart relating to print order information creation processing using a portable terminal according to the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a display example of a print image displayed on the display unit of the portable terminal.
FIG. 6 is a display example when selecting a layout frame on which an image is pasted.
FIG. 7 is a display example when selecting an image.
FIG. 8 is a display example in which a selected image is displayed in a layout frame.
FIG. 9 is a display example when image layout is finished.
FIG. 10 is a display example of an original image when designating image trimming;
FIG. 11 is a display example when image trimming is designated.
FIG. 12 is a display example of a range frame specified by the user.
FIG. 13 is a display example of an image after trimming.
FIG. 14 is an example of print order information.
FIG. 15 is a transmission / reception flowchart when transmitting print order information and designated image data from an electronic camera to a portable terminal.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an initial state of trimming designation
FIG. 17 is a view showing an image after enlargement of a trimming area
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a moving state of a trimming area
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a state in which an area for entering characters is designated in an image
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a state in which characters are inserted into an image.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart regarding menu update in a mobile terminal.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Electronic camera, 20 ... Communication network, 30 ... Portable terminal, 90 ... Server, 150 ... Imaging means, 153 ... Image processing means, 154 ... A / D converter, 156 ... Antenna, 157 ... Transmission / reception means, 162 ... Communication Connector, 167 ... Compression / expansion means, 168 ... Display means, 169 ... OSD, 170 ... Signal processing means, 171 ... Frame memory, 172 ... D / A converter, 174 ... Input means, 175 ... I / O, 177 ... Recording Medium, 178 ... Recording medium mounting section, 179 ... Recording medium interface, 180 ... Information processing means, 182 ... Non-volatile memory, 184 ... RAM, 190 ... Calendar clock, 191 ... Power source, 193 ... Light emitting means, 194 ... Light emission control means 199 ... bus, 305 ... power switch, 356 ... antenna, 357 ... transmission / reception means, 368 ... display means, 369 ... touch panel 370 ... Touch panel control means, 371 ... Frame memory, 372 ... Display control means, 374 ... Input means, 375 ... I / O, 377 ... PC card, 378 ... PC card mounting part, 379 ... Card interface, 380 ... Information processing Means 381 ... Memory, 382 ... Non-volatile memory, 390 ... Calendar clock, 390A ... Timer, 399 ... Bus

Claims (4)

A mobile terminal that receives an image and generates print order information,
Receiving means for receiving an image to be printed from another communication device;
Display means for displaying the received image;
Print order information generating means for generating print order information in which printing conditions of the displayed image are described;
Transmitting means for transmitting the generated print order information to another communication device;
A portable terminal characterized by comprising: A mobile device for editing print order information,
Print order information describing printing conditions for printing an image, and receiving means for receiving an image to be printed described in the print order information;
Display means for displaying the received image;
Print order information editing means for editing the print order information of the displayed image;
Transmitting means for transmitting the edited print order information to another communication device;
A portable terminal characterized by comprising: A mobile device for editing print order information,
Print order information describing printing conditions for printing an image, and receiving means for receiving an image to be printed described in the print order information;
Analysis means for extracting identification information for specifying an image to be printed described in the received print order information;
First transmission means for transmitting the extracted image identification information and an image transmission request for requesting transmission of the image to another communication device;
Display means for displaying the received image;
Print order information editing means for editing the print order information of the displayed image;
Second transmission means for transmitting the print order information edited by the print order information editing means to another communication device;
A portable terminal characterized by comprising: A mobile terminal that receives an image and generates print order information,
Receiving means for receiving an image to be printed from another communication device;
Display means for displaying the received image;
Image processing means for performing image processing such as layout editing, trimming, synthesis of a plurality of images, and text insertion on the image displayed on the display means;
Print order information generating means for generating print order information in which printing conditions indicating the results of the image processing are described;
Transmitting means for transmitting the generated print order information to another communication device;
A portable terminal characterized by comprising:

Images